The Detroit Public Library Announces the Grand Opening of its Newly Renovated Children’s LibraryDetroit community comes together for ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration of new children’s center on Tuesday, April 24 @ 11:30 a.m.

Detroit – The Detroit Public Library announces the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of its newly renovated Children’s Library, located inside Main Library on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. The Children’s Library inside of the Main Library, located in Midtown Detroit at 5201 Woodward Avenue, is complete with new interactive technology, Nintendo Wii & Playstation 3 game consoles, a parent center, more books, innovative programs and games.

The Detroit Public Library was among the first public libraries in the country to establish a “children’s room” where young readers could have their own books. The idea was originated in 1896 by former Detroit Public Library Director Henry Utley, whose purpose for the designated space was to ensure that children were not in the way of older patrons and to give them a better advantage while attracting them to good reading.

“The Detroit Public Library continues to set the standard for children libraries,” said Jonathan Kinloch, Detroit Public Library Commission President. “Our rich history in providing unique designated areas just for children continues with this Children’s Library renovation.”

The new Children’s Library is more than triple the size of the prior location. The center will serve as a community hub for parents looking to bring their children to a safe learning environment for weekly storytelling programs, early learning resources and programs for children up to the age of 12 years old.

“This valuable resource for the community does not happen without the generous support of our community sponsors,” said Jo Anne Mondowney, Executive Director Detroit Public Library. “ I would personally like to thank the Detroit Public Library Friends Foundation, the Detroit Links, the Braylon Edwards Foundation and Bloomfield PTO for their support in this project.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will feature live music & refreshments and addresses by community officials and library administrators.